ARVIN Tolentino hopes he has finally found his rhythm as action heats up in UAAP Season 78.
The Ateneo forward had been averaging just three points and 2.5 rebounds per game in the first six five games but scored eight points and had four boards in a 56-43 win over UP on Wednesday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
That was the Blue Eagles’ fourth win in six matches, with one game to play in the first round.
Tolentino, who averaged eight points en route to winning the Rookie of the Year award last season, hopes he is now set to deliver better performances.
“Maganda rin kasi linalaro ng mga teammates ko. Siyempre, diskarte rin ni coach ’yun,” said Tolentino.
Despite the limited play, the 19-year-old Tolentino said his mindset has always been to do his best to contribute for his team.
“Going into that game naman, nasa isip ko lang is tulungan ‘yung team ko na manalo kasi sobrang kailangan naming manalo. Galing kasi kami sa talo sa UST. ‘Yun lang, basta makatulong sa team,” said Tolentino.
The former San Beda Red Cub said he likes the depth of the Blue Eagles this season despite losing veterans like Chris Newsome and Nico Elorde.
“I think in terms of experience, talagang kulang kami although nandiyan naman si Kiefer (Ravena) and Von (Pessumal) to lead the team. Pero ang maganda sa team namin is we don’t back down. Kahit sabihin mong veterans ‘yung ibang team, laban lang kami hanggang sa manalo.”
Ateneo is in third place, a game behind league-leaders University of Santo Tomas and Far Eastern University.
“We don’t want to focus sa standings. ‘Yung mindset namin is to win at maglaro ng mag-ayos. Magre-reflect na ‘yun sa standings,” Tolentino said.
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